The Recap: Adams Eagles came out of the gates more aggressive and just wanting it more than the Penn Kingsmen. They opened up a 21-10 lead at the end of the 1st quarter and never looked back. They came out in the 2nd quarter in a stifling zone defense that gave Penn fits and caused turnovers for some easy buckets. By halftime Adams had extended the lead to 24 and it was over. Penn was led by senior guard, and Manchester commit, Derek Derda and his 15. Adams won 80-60.

Four Takes:

  • Penn has 2 freshman guards in Markus Burton and Joe Smith that seem to be bright spots for the future. Burton is a 5'10" guard  who starts and runs the offense. The pressure D brought by Adams gave him some problems as he had some bad turnovers, but his shot is there and he plays hard and is a capable passer.  He finished with 15, knocking down one 3, and was good from the line once he started taking the ball to the basket and getting fouled. Someone to watch moving forward.
    • Joe Smith is also 5'10" and didn't back down from the Adams pressure.  He didn't get many looks to shoot but was solid on the ball.
  • Adams is dominated by a very solid junior class. All 5 starters are juniors. They had 10 guys score in this one (four starters in double figures), although they subbed the starters out towards the end once the game was well in hand, but they have depth. They are in Sectional 3 with CMA, LaPorte, Michigan City, Riley, Mishawaka, and Plymouth so things won't be too easy when it comes to tournament time. With their guard play they will definitely be a team to watch.
  • Lead guard Quentez Columbus came out firing on all cylinders. He hit a couple 3s and ran the show. He was finding the open man and getting to the basket. Well rounded game from him and gave the Penn guards fits on D. He finished with 16.
  • Quentez's back court mate, 6' junior Sydney Jefferies, also had a great game. Slashed to the rim, scored, and played well through contact. Knocked down his free throws and showed to be a leader. Finished with 17.

Top Prospects

Penn

Markus Burton - 5'10" Freshman

Joe Smith - 5'10" Freshman

Caleb Applegate - 6' Junior (injured)

Adams

Quentez Columbus - 5'10" Junior

Lynn King - 6'3" Junior

Sydney Jefferies - 6' Junior

Next Up:

Penn at Valpo - Jan 11

Adams at Elkhart Memorial - Jan 11

Markus Burton
Joe Smith
Sydney Jefferies
Quentez Columbus
Lynn King

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